Aros Castle facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Aros Castle |
|
|---|---|
Aros Castle
|
|
 Aros Castle
|
|
| Coordinates | 56°31′56″N 5°57′54″W / 56.5321°N 5.9649°W |
| Site history | |
| Built | 13th century |
| Built by | Clan MacDougall |
Aros Castle, also known as Dounarwyse Castle, is a ruined castle from the 13th century. It stands near Salen on the Isle of Mull in Scotland. The castle looks out over the beautiful Sound of Mull.
Contents
Aros Castle: A Historic Scottish Ruin
Aros Castle was built in the 13th century. It was likely constructed by one of the MacDougall lords of Lorn. This makes it a very old and important historical site.
Who Lived at Aros Castle?
The castle was first a strong base for the Clan MacDougall. They were a powerful family in the area. However, they supported the losing side in a big disagreement. This was between John Balliol and Robert the Bruce.
Changing Hands: New Owners
Because the MacDougalls lost, their lands were taken away. Aros Castle was then given to the Clan Donald. They were known as the Lords of the Isles.
Centuries later, the Clan Donald also faced trouble. They tried to take control of Scotland. Because of this, their lands were also taken away. This time, the Clan Maclean gained control of Aros Castle. They took it from the MacDonalds.
What Did Aros Castle Look Like?
Aros Castle is now a scheduled monument. This means it's a protected historical site. It includes the main hall-house from the 13th century. There is also a bailey, which is a walled courtyard.
Traces of Old Buildings
You can still see signs of other buildings at the site. These might have been built later than the main castle. There is also a small stone boat landing. This is located to the east of the bailey.
Castle Structure
The castle likely had two main floors. It also had a part attic area. It was probably not a very strong castle. Records from 1688 described it as "ruinous, old, useless and never of any strength."
Later Years of Aros Castle
In the late 14th century, the castle was known as Dounarwyse Castle. It was held by the Lords of the Isles.
A Famous Visitor
In 1608, a man named Lord Ochiltree visited the castle. He entertained many Island Chiefs there. However, he then made them prisoners.
Final Occupancy
Even though it was described as weak, the castle seems to have been used by Argyll's soldiers in 1690. After that, there is no sign of anyone living there. No evidence exists of any occupation in the 18th century or later.
